Our Current “Wish List”

Improving Downtown Vibrancy remains a Top 5 Strategic Priority for The City Council in fiscal year 2026-2027.

Our Priorities

  • Transform the public space on the 600 block of Santa Cruz Avenue into a centrally located, inviting place to visit, socialize, enjoy a coffee or casual meal, read a book or newspaper, and attend community events. While it is already extremely popular with teenagers it is unattractive and not adult-friendly.(See design ideas for a 600 Block Public Plaza)
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  • Repair and resurface all city parking lots. Keep them clean! Install facilities that hide the unsightly trash containers that line the lots behind retail businesses and restaurants.
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  • Resurface and re-stripe Downtown Santa Cruz Avenue, repair curbs and crosswalks, and keep everything clean.
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  • Upgrade the general appearance of Santa Cruz Avenue, e.g., add and maintain new landscaping, replace and/or remove existing kiosks.
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  • Install attractive new street lighting starting with Santa Cruz Avenue; then add to the side streets between Oak Grove and Menlo Avenues.
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The existing public space on the 600 block is very popular with students, especially after school.

Some History

In July 2012, the Menlo Park City Council approved the El Camino Real/Downtown Specific Plan which establishes both a development framework and building regulations for private and public investments on El Camino Real, in the Caltrain station area and in Downtown Menlo Park. The Specific Plan also includes many civic projects the community recommended the City pursue. Unfortunately, almost all the significant projects have been ignored by subsequent city councils, and NO council member has ever emerged as a strong champion for improving the vitality Downtown.
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Good News – July 3, 2025

The Menlo Park City Council agreed to retain the existing public area on the 600 block and hired a consultant to design a far more inviting public place to enjoy a variety of activities including public events. Learn project details here.
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The Council is conducting a study session on July 8. You can view the July 2025 study session staff report here.

Bad News – Spring 2026

As of April 2026, the City had not completed ANY improvements to this public space. However, some residents have contributed a few new tables and seating.